With the Premier League being the most popular and definitely the highest-paid league in the world, you would expect to see the highest transfer fees. The Premier League clubs have spared no expense when it comes to strengthening their squads. Whether it is bringing local talents or adding superstars from other leagues, EPL teams have historically been known for being able to break the bank no matter the situation.
With the recent Premier League transfer record being broken thanks to Liverpool bringing in Florian Wirtz, we thought that it would be more than appropriate to update the list and take a look back at all of the Premier League most expensive signings that happened over the years. There are some mouth-watering figures, and you can decide whether they paid off or turned out as stinkers.
Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen to Liverpool) £116.5m, 2025
Liverpool shattered the British transfer record to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz for £100.5m, including potential add-ons of £16m. The German playmaker, just 22, arrived as a two-time Bundesliga Player of the Year, heralded for his vision and flair. The Reds outbid rivals, mainly Bayern Munich, to secure his signature, banking on his ability to elevate their midfield.
Wirtz’s move eclipsed previous records, marking him as the priciest acquisition in Premier League history. His early days at Anfield show promise. His deft passing and creativity sparked excitement among fans. Though adapting to the league’s intensity remains a work in progress. Liverpool’s gamble on Wirtz reflects their ambition to dominate both domestically and in Europe.
Moises Caicedo (Brighton to Chelsea) £115m, 2023
Chelsea’s £115m signing of Moises Caicedo from Brighton in August 2023 came after a heated bidding war with Liverpool. The Ecuadorian midfielder, aged 21 at the time, had shone on the south coast. He earned the Seagulls’ Player of the Year award. His versatility and ball-winning ability made him a prime target. But his initial adjustment at Stamford Bridge was rocky, highlighted by a debut penalty concession.
Under Enzo Maresca, Caicedo has found his footing. He started every league game last season and earned Chelsea’s Player of the Season award in 2024-25. While his price tag still looms large, his growing influence suggests Chelsea’s investment may yet pay dividends. He scored only one goal and provided four assists, but has proven as an indispensable member of the starting 11.
Enzo Fernández (Benfica to Chelsea) £106.8m, 2023
Chelsea broke the British transfer record in January 2023, signing Enzo Fernández from Benfica for £106.8m. Fresh off a World Cup triumph with Argentina, where he was named the best young player, the midfielder became the centrepiece of Chelsea’s rebuild under Todd Boehly.
The fee, driven by his release clause, raised eyebrows. Fernández initially struggled and took his time adapting to the much more physical Premier League. While his first season definitely did not justify the hefty amount put in him, he bounced back under Maresca and was even given the captain’s armband as well.
This season, Enzo scored nine goals and provided 16 assists across all competitions. Becoming one of the best and most consistent players in the Blues’ system.
Declan Rice (West Ham to Arsenal) £105m, 2023
Arsenal’s £105m capture of Declan Rice from West Ham in July 2023 was a statement of intent. The England international, who captained the Hammers to Europa Conference League glory, chose Mikel Arteta’s project over Manchester City. Rice has been a revelation, anchoring Arsenal’s midfield with composure and versatility.
He added both goals and leadership to Arteta’s team, becoming a member of the PFA Team of the Year in 2024. Proving a bargain despite the nine-figure fee. His seamless transition has made him one of the world’s top midfielders, justifying Arsenal’s record-breaking outlay.
Jack Grealish (Aston Villa to Manchester City) £100m, 2021
Manchester City’s £100m signing of Jack Grealish from Aston Villa in 2021 set a then-British record. The Birmingham native, known for his dazzling dribbles, joined Pep Guardiola’s side after a stellar season with Villa. Grealish played a key role in City’s 2022-23 treble.
But his minutes have dwindled since, with just six league starts last season. While his trophy cabinet is brimming, his limited role has sparked debate about whether City overpaid for a player who’s become a squad option rather than a star.
It remains to be seen if Grealish can get back into the form from the 2022/23 season. Talks about him moving away from City or being loaned out are imminent.
Romelu Lukaku (Inter Milan to Chelsea) £97.5m, 2021
Chelsea’s £97.5m re-signing of Romelu Lukaku from Inter Milan in 2021 aimed to bring a proven goalscorer back to Stamford Bridge. The Belgian, who had thrived in Serie A, struggled to fit into Thomas Tuchel’s system, managing just eight league goals. His public criticism of the club led to a fallout, followed by loans to Inter and Roma, and a permanent move to Napoli in 2024.
Lukaku’s second Chelsea became a costly misstep, despite his undeniable talent. Luckily for him, he has found new stability under coach Antonio Conte at Napoli. He helped I Ciucciarelli win the 2024/25 Serie A title, with him finishing in the top of both best scorers and assist makers of the season.
